Ginkgo biloba is a widely-used herb in natural medicine. In traditional Chinese medicine, ginkgo is used to treat everything from circulatory problems to asthma to vertigo. Ginkgo is regularly prescribed by doctors in Europe. In the U.S., ginkgo is considered a nutritional supplement and not accepted as part of traditional medicine.
Circulatory Disorders
Ginkgo extract can be used to treat various circulatory disorders. Ginkgo dilates blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely and reach organs and extremities faster and more easily. As a result, taking ginkgo might improve cholesterol by preventing blood platelets from sticking together and to the walls of blood vessels.
Mental Disorders
The use of ginkgo to treat memory problems is well known. This use is tied to ginkgo's power for improving circulation. As blood moves more easily throughout the body, it will improve the delivery of oxygen to the brain, increasing memory and improving concentration and overall mental abilities. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginkgo seems to be also useful in the treatment of dementia.
Keeps Cells Young
Ginkgo is rich in antioxidants, which can help fight free radicals. As you age and as your body is exposed to environmental toxins, cells are damaged. This can lead to the onset of chronic diseases and speed up the appearance of heart problems and other serious medical issues. Ginkgo seems to effectively neutralize free radicals in the body, slowing down the aging process of the cells.
Other Uses
Ginkgo has been used to treat a number of health problems. According to Mayo Clinic, many of these uses have not been verified by research and are purely anecdotal. Ginkgo is often used to treat tinnitus, macular degeneration, glaucoma, radiation exposure, asthma and drug-induced sexual dysfunction.
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